Mourinho’s Stamford Bridge Return: Chelsea Edge Benfica 1-0
Benfica Fall Short Against Chelsea in Champions League Clash
On October 1, 2025, Stamford Bridge set the stage for a dramatic UEFA Champions League encounter as Benfica, under the stewardship of Jose Mourinho, faced Chelsea in Group F. The match was more than a contest for points—it was a poignant homecoming for Mourinho, who previously achieved legendary status at Chelsea during two trophy-laden spells. The evening, however, ended in disappointment for the Portuguese side as Chelsea secured a narrow 1-0 victory.
Early Own Goal Proves Decisive
The decisive moment arrived just 18 minutes into the match. Chelsea’s Alejandro Garnacho sent in a dangerous cross from the left, and in a cruel twist of fate, Benfica midfielder Richard Rios inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net. This own goal gave Chelsea an early lead and shifted the momentum in their favor.
Benfica responded with energy and determination. Dodi Lukebakio came close to leveling the score, striking the near post with a well-placed shot. Despite their efforts and spells of sustained pressure, Benfica struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Chelsea defense. The London side, meanwhile, managed the game with maturity, keeping their composure in key moments.
Mourinho’s Emotional Return Overshadowed by Defeat
For Jose Mourinho, the fixture was emotionally charged. Returning to Stamford Bridge, where he won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and became a club icon, Mourinho was greeted warmly by many in attendance. Yet, the result was a stark reminder of the challenges he faces with Benfica this season.
Mourinho’s tactical approach was evident from the outset, with Benfica pressing high and seeking to disrupt Chelsea’s buildup play. However, the early setback forced the visitors to chase the game, leaving them vulnerable to Chelsea’s counterattacks.
Controversy and Tempers Flare Late On
The match was not without controversy. In stoppage time, Chelsea substitute Joao Pedro was shown a straight red card for a high challenge, becoming the third Chelsea player to be dismissed in the club’s last four matches across all competitions. The incident added further tension to an already intense affair and raised questions about Chelsea’s recent disciplinary record.
Adding to the drama, former Benfica star Enzo Fernandez, now a key figure at Chelsea, was targeted by some traveling Benfica supporters. Objects were thrown in his direction, prompting Mourinho to approach the away section and urge fans to show restraint and respect. The Portuguese manager’s intervention was widely noted in the post-match analysis, highlighting his commitment to sportsmanship even in defeat.
Chelsea’s Pedro Neto Shines Amid Midfield Battle
While much of the attention was on Mourinho and the emotional subplots, Chelsea’s Pedro Neto emerged as a standout performer. The Portuguese winger was a constant threat down the flanks, using his pace and technical ability to unsettle the Benfica backline. Portuguese media outlets lauded Neto’s performance, noting that his movement and creativity gave Mourinho’s defense persistent problems throughout the evening.
Neto’s influence was instrumental in Chelsea’s attacking play, and his link-up with Garnacho proved crucial in creating the sequence that led to the own goal. His display not only earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike but also underscored his growing importance in Chelsea’s European campaign.
Implications for Group F: Chelsea Revive Hopes, Benfica in Trouble
The victory marked Chelsea’s first win of the Champions League group stage this season, reviving their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds. Manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his players for their resilience and ability to manage the game under pressure.
For Benfica, the result was a setback. The Lisbon giants have now suffered back-to-back defeats in the group, leaving their qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Mourinho acknowledged the difficulties in his post-match comments, emphasizing the need for focus and improvement in the remaining fixtures.
Looking Ahead: Mourinho’s Benfica Face Uphill Battle
As the Champions League group stage continues, Benfica must regroup quickly. Mourinho’s experience and tactical acumen will be crucial as they seek to turn their campaign around. The team’s next fixtures will be pivotal in determining whether they can recover from this disappointing start and mount a serious challenge for progression.
For Chelsea, the win provides a much-needed boost in confidence as they look to build momentum both domestically and in Europe. The return of key players and the emergence of talents like Pedro Neto suggest that the Blues have the depth and quality to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge was always destined to be a headline event, but the result served as a reminder of the fine margins in elite football. An early own goal and disciplined defending were enough for Chelsea to claim all three points, while Benfica left London with plenty of questions to answer. As the Champions League group stage unfolds, both teams will be under scrutiny—one seeking redemption, the other aiming to sustain their revival.